Hanging Gardens Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

It's the über-smiley driver and his tropical shirt awaiting you
at the airport that epitomises the vibe of the Balinese people.

The mood is infectious, and you'll be beaming along with him as
you zip through villages lined with wood-carved huts and craft
galleries, before you arrive at your hideaway. Buried into the side
of the rainforest, Hanging Gardens Ubud literally sways above the
canopy.

There really is no mistaking that you're shoulder deep in the
jungle when cheeky chattering monkeys clamber over the thatched
roof of your villa as you float in your private infinity pool. Grab
a (free) bike and cycle to the nearby historic temples to soak up
the Buddhist atmosphere, or trundle past rice paddies, waving to
local children. Take a tour - the elephant safari is a must. But if
the real aim is to relax, head to the main infinity pools, and
simply hang, taking in the vistas of emerald flora, the delicate
birdsong and the rushing water of the ancient river below.

WOW FACTOR Dining on a private candlelit bamboo raft, floating
atop the infinity pool. Bang a drum with a stick, and you are
reeled back in for an immediate champagne top-up. A surreal
treat.

GO The Turquoise Holiday Company www.turquoiseholidays.co.uk offers seven nights
from £1,840 per person, B&B. Includes flights and transfers

At the centre of this magical island, Ubud, the cultural heart
of Bali, is a mix of old and new against a backdrop of lush
jungle.

The studios of Western modern artists sit next to galleries of
traditional Balinese art. Funky organic cafes filled with expats
are neighbours to ancient temples, where nightly dance performances
have all eyes transfixed.

Like the town, Uma Ubud seamlessly blends old and new, with modern
white interiors and traditional architecture. A 20-minute walk from
the centre of town, Ubud life is still on your doorstep.

Don't miss the Neka Museum and the legendary Naughty Nuri's Warung
and Grill (order mie Go:reng). Take advantage of the yoga
classes to find inner peace.

WOW FACTOR: Visit Uma's sister property Como Shambhala
Retreats, in the jungle, for one of its blissful treatments.